In general, all goods imported into Singapore are subject to GST levied at the prevailing rate on the goods’ CIF (cost, insurance and freight) value and applicable duty (for dutiable goods only). The CIF is inclusive of all other charges, costs and expenses incidental to the sale and delivery of the goods into Singapore, whether or not shown on the invoice.

 

For any goods which are gifts, free of charge or replacement items that usually do not involve the payment of a price, if there is no value shown on the commercial invoice, you would need to obtain the commercial value from the supplier.

 

Please note that zero value is not acceptable for the purpose of customs declarations. This commercial value should be based on the transaction value of identical or similar goods from the same country of origin that is exported at about the same time. The commercial invoice may indicate "value for Customs purpose only".

 

Please note that "value for Customs purposes" usually indicates that there is no sale of goods. However, the importer must be able to explain how the commercial value was determined and maintain trade documents to substantiate the value. You may find more information in Customs Circular No. 09/2012.

Please be informed that the Major Exporter Scheme (MES) is administered by the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS). If you wish to import the FOC items under the MES, you may email to IRAS to check if this is allowed.